From Kauai to Hawaii Island and everywhere in between, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the country’s most charming small towns. Located on the southern coast of Kauai between Waimea and Koloa is Hanapepe, one of the islands’ best kept secrets. This little beach town is home to 2,600 residents and is often referred to as "Kauai’s Biggest Little Town."
Hanapepe’s historic, plantation-style buildings are now home to charming shops, eateries and a surprising amount of art galleries. In fact, Hanapepe is home to the largest concentration of artists on the island, as well as plenty other magical places.
The town is full of charming shops…
...and countless art galleries.
Every Friday night, the town comes to life for its weekly Art Walk, where all the local galleries are opened to view the work of local artists.
But perhaps the most amazing thing about Hanapepe?
The small town served as the inspiration for the town featured in the Disney classic Lilo & Stitch. How amazing is that?
You can check out the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.
One of Hanapepe's most popular attractions, the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge was built in the early 1900s so residents could cross the river easily.
As well ass the Kauai Soto Zen Temple Zenshuji.
This small Buddhist temple was established in 1903 and still holds bi-monthly services.
Nestled along the Hawaiian coast with the Pacific Ocean to the south and the mountains to the north, the land surrounding the small town is full of gems just waiting to be discovered.
The town is home to incredible beaches, including Salt Pond Park…
...and Kauai’s stunning glass beach.
Located near Port Allen Harbor, is this incredible beach covered with millions of sea glass pebbles in brilliant hues of aqua, blue and brown. The glass found at this beach was mainly from broken bottles and auto glass that was dumped years ago, and then smoothed by time and ocean tides. The beach is pretty difficult to find, but it is heaven for lovers of sea glass.
And to the mountains, you will find the stunning Hanapepe Valley, as well as an iconic waterfall.
This is Manawaiopuna Falls, more commonly known as Jurassic Falls – after its famous appearance in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 classic, Jurassic Park. The waterfall is located on private property, and you’ll have to contract a helicopter tour company to get there, but it’s well worth the time and money, if you ask us. On the tour, you’ll probably fry through the Hanapepe Valley, the same route that the helicopter in the movie takes.
This charming little town is home to everything your heart desires, and is the perfect place for your next weekend getaway.
Other small Hawaiian towns you must check out include Maui’s Paia, Oahu’s Haleiwa, Hawaii Island’s Hawi, Molokai's Kaunakakai, and Kauai’s Hanalei.
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